This past weekend, July 19 and 20, our Rescue Center was once again extremely busy, admitting three new juvenile loggerhead turtles.

All of them showed similar symptoms to the turtles admitted the previous week: lethargy and dense barnacle coverage on their shells and flippers, indicating a prolonged period of reduced mobility.

Upon arrival, the turtles received first aid (infusions and glucose), and we conducted examinations such as X-rays and blood tests, while beginning the removal of dense barnacle growth.

Anica was found on Saturday near Crveni Otok in the Rovinj archipelago by Mr. Iannis. She weighs 695 g, has a shell length of 18 cm, and is about one year old.

Denči was found the same day in the same area near Rovinj by skipper Mateo. He weighs 1,009 g, has a shell length of 20 cm, and is about one year old.

Zoe was found on Sunday near Poreč by Ms. Petra. She weighs 475 g, has a shell length of approximately 15 cm, and is under one year old.

If you find a sea turtle that is lethargic, injured, covered in algae or barnacles, entangled in plastic, or unable to dive, please follow these instructions:

Report the sighting to: +385 52 381 402

Move the turtle to shore if possible. Handle it only by the shell and do not place your hands near its mouth. Though not aggressive, it may bite if it feels threatened.

Place the turtle in a calm, shaded, and sheltered area. If possible, use a plastic container with a soft lining. Cover the shell with a damp towel.

Keep the nostrils clear and maintain moisture on the head and eyes until our team arrives.

If there are bleeding wounds, gently wrap them with a bandage or clean cloth.

Limit people’s movement around the turtle to minimize stress.

We sincerely thank everyone for reporting sightings and assisting with the transport of these turtles.